Jon M. Chu

Biography

Jon M. Chu is an acclaimed American film director, producer, and screenwriter known for his visually dynamic storytelling and commitment to diverse representation in Hollywood. Born on November 2, 1979, in Palo Alto, California, Chu grew up in a family deeply connected to the culinary world—his parents owned Chef Chu’s, a well-known Chinese restaurant in Los Altos.

 From an early age, Chu showed a strong interest in filmmaking, often experimenting with home videos and short films. He went on to study at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts, where he honed his craft and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Film and Television Production.

Chu’s career took off when he was recognized for his student short film When the Kids Are Away, which caught the attention of major Hollywood producers. He made his feature directorial debut with Step Up 2: The Streets (2008), followed by Step Up 3D (2010), both of which showcased his innovative approach to choreography and camera movement. His flair for visually stunning storytelling continued in projects like Justin Bieber: Never Say Never (2011), G.I. Joe: Retaliation (2013), and Now You See Me 2 (2016).

Chu’s breakthrough moment came with Crazy Rich Asians (2018), a groundbreaking romantic comedy that became a global phenomenon and a milestone for Asian representation in Hollywood. The film received critical acclaim for its lavish visuals, heartfelt storytelling, and cultural significance. Following that success, Chu directed the musical adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s In the Heights (2021), further cementing his reputation as a director capable of blending spectacle with emotional depth.

In recent years, Jon M. Chu has continued to expand his creative reach, taking on the highly anticipated film adaptations of the Broadway musical Wicked. Beyond filmmaking, he advocates for greater diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry, using his platform to uplift underrepresented voices and stories.

Through his bold vision and passion for storytelling, Jon M. Chu has emerged as one of the most influential filmmakers of his generation—bridging cultures, genres, and audiences around the world.